Bridge of Lions gate repair cost $65,000

Historic City News reporters have learned that the Florida Department of Transportation will spend $65,000 to repair the black ornamental swing gates on the Bridge of Lions that were damaged when a motorist collided with them on August 1.

Beginning this weekend, barring any unforeseen conditions such as bad weather, a private contractor from Jacksonville will begin the repairs — expected to take about two months to complete.

Archer Western Contractors of Jacksonville has been hired by the Florida Department of Transportation to complete the work that includes removal, repairs and re-installation of the gates.

Department spokesperson Laurie Sanderson told reporters that repairs would require a few nighttime lane and sidewalk closures during the course of the project.